Norovirus closes Wirral hospital's doors

In a statement, health bosses say it's in the "interest of patients, visitors and staff..."

They go on to say:

"This temporary restriction does not affect Wirral Women and Children's Hospital and Clatterbridge Hospital. Both remain open to visitors.

"Due to a new strain of the winter vomiting bug Norovirus (currently circulating the local area); it is important we protect our patients as much as possible from infection. To help prevent this current spread, Arrowe Park Hospital has restricted visiting inside its main hospital block. Visiting will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances and at the discretion of the Ward Sister or nurse in charge.

"Norovirus is a highly infectious virus which often circulates the local community at this time of year. It causes vomiting and diarrhoea. Restricting visiting has proved successful in curtailing the spread of the virus in the past.

"We endeavour to return to normal visiting as soon as possible."

Symptoms include a sudden onset of vomiting and/or diarrhoea. Some people may have a temperature, headache and stomach cramps. The illness usually resolves in one or two days and there are no long-term effects. The advice is to follow these steps: